Teddy Atlas has urged an unbeaten world champion to walk away from the sport at the top of his game.
Whilst Muhammad Ali is widely considered to be one of, if not the greatest fighter to have ever graced the sport, the three-time world heavyweight champion encountered a number of serious health issues towards the end of his professional career and thereafter.
In the final two bouts of his tenure, which came against Larry Holmes in October 1980 and Trevor Berbick in December 1981 after two years out, it was well known that Ali’s health had began to deteriorate. He would suffer defeats on both occasions, with Holmes being the first and only man to stop him.
Fast forward to the modern day and Ukrainian icon Oleksandr Usyk currently reigns as the undisputed heavyweight champion.
Speaking to Grosvenor Casinos, Atlas urged Usyk to draw the curtain on his decorated career as he claims there are ‘too many sad endings’ in boxing.
“I’ve seen too many sad endings, Usyk should retire … I’ve seen too many sad endings. I’ve seen the Muhammad Ali’s. I’ve seen other guys that get less fanfare, but it’s no less terrible to witness.”
“I want to see a happy ending to this great movie. This Usyk movie has inspired so many people in so many ways outside of boxing, so that’s what I want. I know I’m not going to get it. I know that. I’m not saying he has to do it. I’m not saying he shouldn’t continue. He’s still in his prime in many ways. I understand all that. I just understand that my business is one of the most unforgiving businesses in the world.”
The 38-year-old Ukrainian is set to ignore the advice of the likes of Atlas and fight on, with top contenders Joseph Parker and Agit Kabayel both in line for a shot at the throne. However, he may look to a bigger money fight, and has mentioned potential trilogies with both Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
